The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) announced that it is evaluating a potential partnership with Heartland Water Partners to purchase surplus water from Millwood Lake in Arkansas. The district’s board approved a resolution on Oct. 22 expressing interest in under‑utilized surface‑water sources that can be delivered at an affordable cost to its more than 2.4 million customers.
Why the district is looking out of state
NTMWD officials say the region’s long‑term water needs are driven by rapid population growth. Projections show the service area – covering roughly 2,200 square miles and more than 70 communities, including Allen, Frisco, Plano, Richardson, Rockwall and Wylie – could nearly double its population by 2080. To stay ahead of demand, the district is seeking “excess surface water supplies” that are currently released from reservoirs and flow unused into the Gulf.
Potential volume and benefits
Heartland Water Partners holds exclusive rights to excess water in Millwood Lake. If an agreement is reached, the district could receive more than 100 million gallons of water per day. NTMWD Executive Director and General Manager Jenna Covington emphasized that the purchase would be pursued only if it proves beneficial for both Texas and Arkansas communities, noting that the deal could provide a financial boost to local economies while securing a reliable water source for North Texas.
Logistics and next steps
The exact point where the water would enter NTMWD’s system has not been finalized. Bois d’Arc Lake was mentioned as a possible delivery location, though officials said it may not be the final choice. Any cross‑state transfer would also require approval from the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission and the Arkansas General Assembly.
Community impact
NTMWD supplies wholesale water, wastewater and solid‑waste services to suburban and rural residents across North Texas. By tapping into an under‑used reservoir, the district hopes to keep water rates affordable for families and businesses while preserving the region’s growth potential. The district’s transparent, public‑process approach is intended to keep residents informed as the study progresses.
What’s next?
District staff are continuing informal discussions with Heartland Water Partners. No formal contract terms have been set, and the proposal remains in the early‑stage review phase. As the study moves forward, NTMWD will release updates on cost estimates, delivery routes and any regulatory approvals required.
For now, the district’s focus remains on evaluating all viable options – both within Texas and in neighboring states – to ensure a secure, affordable water future for North Texas’s expanding communities.
Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.
